Central Coast residents #OptOutside for Black Friday

While many people are hitting the store this Black Friday, others are taking part in a new trend and heading outdoors.

The #optoutside campaign was started this year by outdoor retailer REI and now other groups have jumped on board encouraging families to stay away from the malls and go explore.

Long lines and shoppers brawling for the best deal has long been a tradition the day after Thanksgiving. But some people are trading in their shopping bag for backpacks.

“Instead of calling it Black Friday, we decided to make it Green Friday,” said hiker Melissa Tonisson.

And she’s wasn’t alone. The parking lot at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton was packed Friday with families spending quality time outside.

“We have our whole family here. Going to go on a little walk, go on a little hike, family time,” said hiker Tiffany Santana.

Initially started by REI, the #optoutside enthusiasm quickly spread across California where the Save the Redwoods League and State Parks teamed up to offer free admission on Black Friday.

“Save the Redwoods League got the idea doing ‘Into the Redwoods’ as a way to bring people out specifically into our Redwood forests,” said Mike Kahn with the Sempervirens Fund.

Kahn worked with the Save the Redwoods League to help get Central Coast people out of the stores and into local parks.

“Today (Friday) is about connecting people with the outdoors. Instead of going shopping for Black Friday, really connecting people with friends and family,” said Kahn.

And working off that holiday meal.

“We love the fresh air and burning off all the turkey calories,” said hiker Jaclyn Kucharski.